Link between yo-yo dieting and sudden death caused by heart attack

A new study presented at the American Heart Association conference in New Orleans has concluded that post-menopausal women who yo-yo diet over a prolonged period of time are at an increased risk of sudden death caused by heart disease.

The study, led by researchers at Alpert Medical School, Brown University, observed 158,063 post-menopausal women for more than 11 years. The association appeared strongest in women with a normal BMI at the start of the study.

What we said

Our Associate Medical Director, Dr Mike Knapton, said: “Coronary heart disease remains the UK’s single biggest killer. We need to do more to ensure women – including those who have a normal BMI – are aware that adopting a healthy lifestyle, and maintaining it, over a long period of time is the best way to reduce their risk of a sudden, devastating heart attack.

“There’s no way to reverse the damage caused by heart disease so it’s vital we all take steps to reduce our risk as early as possible – a lifelong balanced diet, that is rich in fruit and vegetables, is an important way to look after our heart health.”

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British Heart Foundation is a registered Charity No. 225971. Registered as a Company limited by guarantee in England & Wales No. 699547. Registered office at Greater London House, 180 Hampstead Road, London NW1 7AW. Registered as a Charity in Scotland No. SC039426

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